Common Causes of Car Accidents

ar accidents remain one of the top causes of injury and death across the country. From fender benders to life-altering collisions, they affect millions every year. Even when no one is seriously hurt, the costs can be overwhelming, and the stress can linger. The more we understand the leading causes of car wrecks in Louisiana, the better equipped we are to make smart decisions behind the wheel and reduce our risks.

What Are the Leading Causes of Car Wrecks?

Driving is more than just getting from point A to point B. It requires full attention, patience, and good judgment. Knowing what commonly leads to accidents gives you an edge in avoiding them. Below are the top culprits and how they impact road safety.

Speeding

Something about being in a hurry makes people forget the danger of pushing the speedometer. Speeding may save a few minutes, but it often leads to disastrous outcomes. Speed-related crashes are prevalent, making it harder for drivers to stop in time or respond to sudden obstacles. 

Drunk Driving

It is no secret that driving under the influence is both illegal and life-threatening, yet drunk driving causes and stats continue to reveal just how serious the problem remains. Last year alone, Louisiana reported 557 fatalities linked to impaired driving. Alcohol and drugs slow your reaction time, impair judgment, and increase the risk of deadly decisions. It only takes one moment to change lives forever.

Distracted Driving

Distractions often follow us into the driver’s seat, whether texting while driving, adjusting the radio, or checking the GPS. Even a quick lapse in focus can have serious consequences. Distracted driving crash stats show the impact clearly, with 19,985 crashes reported in Louisiana last year. 

Reckless or Aggressive Driving

Some drivers treat traffic laws like suggestions rather than rules. Speeding through red lights, weaving between cars without signaling, or tailgating other drivers are all signs of dangerous behavior. These actions are not just risky; they fall into the category of reckless driving accident risks. 

Fatigued Driving

Tired drivers might not think they are a danger on the road, but driver fatigue can be just as impairing as alcohol. Sleepy minds struggle to focus and react in time. Some drivers even fall asleep behind the wheel. 

Hazardous Road Conditions

Sometimes, it is not just the drivers who make the roads unsafe. Rain, fog, icy patches, and poor road maintenance are all hazardous road conditions that contribute to accidents. When you add potholes, construction debris, or missing signs to the mix, things can get dangerous very quickly.

Mechanical Failures and Defective Parts

Even a well-maintained vehicle can betray you if a crucial part fails. Tire blowouts, defective tires, and other equipment failures can cause drivers to lose control, especially at high speeds. 

Wrong-Way Driving

Few things are more frightening than seeing headlights coming straight at you in your lane. Wrong-way driving accidents are typically caused by impaired, confused, or distracted drivers and often result in severe injuries. 

Get the Legal Help You Need After a Car Accident

After a car crash, the last thing you should worry about is navigating paperwork or fighting with an insurance adjuster. Our team of personal injury attorneys at Gordon McKernan Injury Attorneys has helped people across Louisiana recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We proudly serve Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Shreveport, Alexandria, Lake Charles, and beyond.

If you have been injured in a crash, call 888.310.4155 now for a free consultation. Let us handle the legal process so you can focus on healing.